Frank Lampard says it was an honour to play against Didier Drogba (Picture: Reuters)

Frank Lampard praised Chelsea’s former striker Didier Drogba and defended their current No.9 Fernando Torres after the draw at Galatasaray.

The 1-1 Champions League stalemate means former Chelsea favourite Drogba returns to Stamford Bridge for the second leg with the outcome of the last-16 tie still firmly in the balance.

Lampard knows the 35-year-old will receive a rousing reception from the Blues fans but also insisted Torres, who has often flattered to deceive, deserves credit after scoring Chelsea’s goal.

Lampard enjoyed playing against Drogba and said: ‘It was brilliant. I’m really pleased for him.

‘It’s a moment he deserves, especially at the Bridge. I can’t speak highly enough of him. It was an honour to play against him and an honour to play with him for so many years. But we know if you switch off he’s going to score, so we’ll have to watch him back at the Bridge.’

Drogba’s impending return, coupled with leaked remarks from Mourinho on Chelsea’s strength in depth up top, has turned extra spotlight on the frontmen.